Amsterdam – Rob Jetten, the 38-year-old prodigy of Dutch politics, is now the Netherlands’ prime minister—the youngest ever to hold the office. King Willem-Alexander swore him in at Huis ten Bosch Palace, launching a minority coalition that’s already drawing intense scrutiny.
This three-party pact of liberal D66, Christian Democrats, and VVD secures only 66 seats out of 150 in the house, forcing Jetten to court opposition support relentlessly. It’s the third cabinet in four years, per NOS reports, underscoring the volatility of Dutch governance.
The event brimmed with pageantry: ministers in morning coats for the oath, followed by attire changes and ministry handovers. A symbolic photo with the king on the palace stairs marked the transition.
Elections in October set the stage, with D66 narrowly defeating Wilders’ PVV (both 26 seats), aided by later PVV defections. Coalition agreement came in January 2026, three months post-vote.
Pro-EU and progressive, Jetten inherits a nation grappling with inflation, asylum seeker influxes, and farmer protests. His leadership promises fresh perspectives, but the minority status amplifies risks. Supporters hail his ascent as a breath of fresh air; detractors warn of instability. As he settles in, all eyes are on whether this young PM can steer the Netherlands through turbulent waters.